LGBTQIA+ | wps-psychology

Specialist psychology counselling

to meet your needs.

Gender affirming care

We recognise, welcome and respect people of all genders, expressions and sexuality diverse populations.

Gender

Gender identity is our internal, deeply held sense of who we are. Gender itself is a socially constructed concept. That means our society creates and defines ideas of masculinity, femininity, man, women, and other gender identities, rather than these being purely biological or universal truths. These ideas can vary across time, place, and culture. For example, what is considered "masculine" in one society might be seen differently in another. Gender expression is how we outwardly show or communicate our gender identity to the world through things like clothing, hairstyle, body language, voice, name, and pronouns. When our inner sense of gender aligns with how we express ourselves externally, it can create a powerful sense of joy, comfort, and authenticity often described as gender euphoria. However, there is no need for a person’s gender identity to match their gender expression.

For Transgender (people whose gender identity does not align with their sex assigned at birth) people (including gender fluid and non-binary people), being affirmed or not affirmed by society in their gender identity can have significant mental health impacts. If you are questioning your gender identity, wanting to transition, or experiencing mental health difficulties because of transphobia or other stressors, help is available from:

TransHub – TransHub is an ACON resource for all trans people in NSW, our loved ones, allies and health providers.

Western Psychology Services

If you need urgent support, one of the below hotlines can help:

Twenty10 (youth)

Q Life Get Help

Rainbow Door Rainbow Door

Psychology services (including counselors and social workers) can also provide short to long term support by helping folks understand the difficulties they are facing, how they are individually impacted by and responding to those difficulties, and improve coping. They should also support by providing a warm and affirming space where you can be 100% authentic and safe in your identities. WPS is available to provide this space and support with in-person and online sessions

Sexuality

LGBTIQA+ people experience unique stressors based on their sexuality or identity that go beyond the everyday stressors that everyone faces. These stressors can include being rejected by family, experiencing bullying or harassment, being denied healthcare or employment, or facing violence and threats. It also includes internal stressors like the fear of coming out, internalized homophobia or transphobia, and the need to constantly assess whether an environment is safe to express one’s identity. These experiences create a persistent sense of vigilance or anxiety, which over time can take a serious toll on mental health.

Research shows that LGBTIQA+ individuals are at higher risk for depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal thoughts compared to their heterosexual and cisgender peers. This is not because of their identities, but because of the stress caused by living in a society that stigmatizes them. For example, trans and gender-diverse people often face barriers to affirming care or legal recognition, adding another layer of stress that can negatively impact well-being.

However, it’s important to note that LGBTIQA+ people also show incredible resilience. Supportive communities, affirming relationships, access to gender-affirming care, and inclusive environments can significantly reduce the effects of minority stress. Protective factors like these not only help people cope, but they also foster self-acceptance, pride, and long-term mental and physical health.

Understanding the unique stressors LGBTIQIA+ people face is essential for building more inclusive policies, services, and communities that affirm LGBTIQA+ people and reduce the harmful impacts of discrimination and stigma. If you are experiencing mental health difficulties or would like to build your resilience related to your sexuality, the below resources can be helpful:

Twenty10 (youth)

Q Life Get Help